Care in rural communities, provision of preventative services for people aged over 60 and the care of patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) are among areas being looked at.

Said health minister Ben Bradshaw (pictured): "This programme provides an opportunity for clinicians, working closely with the community more widely, to use their on-the-ground knowledge to design services that are flexible, personalised and seamless.

"That way, people will get the integrated health and social care they need, all in one place, to help manage their conditions effectively."

Care services minister Phil Hope said: "The pilot at Church View Medical Practice will benefit older people, and I want to see what lessons can be learnt from them in improving care for older people around the country."